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With Perseverance

And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance;and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:3-5

I know this.

I really do.

I know that I have to continue to exercise my body even when it hurts. Especially when it hurts.

That fact was once again driven home by my physical therapist after I explained why I had done little exercising since I saw him last.

"You already know these things are going to happen. Your body is so sensitive to pain now that something small just sends spasms throughout your whole body. You have to learn to deal with it. How about I give you some exercises specifically for those time?"

I nodded my head while I was thinking inwardly - I can barely move because it hurts so. I'm in tears because it hurts so bad. Exercise?

I think he was reading my mind.

"You have to keep moving. You have to know what to do on your own. Getting moving again is the only thing that will release the spasms."

I know he's right.

I hate that he's right.

I have to persevere.

What an appropriate word.

per·se·ver·ance noun

1. steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.

A persistent course of action especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.

Yup.

That is what I need to do. God sure found a way for me to practice this. It's not only an attitude. It's an action.

I can sit and think about doing those exercises all I want. What I need to do is do them. I already have the knowledge I'm going to need them - that my body will spasm again and again.

Yet, I have a way to deal with it.

After four days of pain, my body is well enough to move some. The exercises felt good. I need to remember to do them even when they hurt.

Perseverance.

Not only with my physical life, but in my spiritual life as well. I can't let any of these challenges defeat me. They may bring me down for a while, but I can start using my spiritual muscles the same way I need to use my body muscles.

Yes. That is the word for today.

Perseverance.

Father God, Thank you for the people you put in our lives - the people who call things they way they are - who don't sugar coat and say what we want to hear - yet rather say the things we need to here. Thank you for the medical professionals who work with us. No, they don't always have the answers we want to hear - or even have all the answers, but thank you that you will bring the right answers in the right time - as we persevere. Amen and amen.

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